State House approves Transportation Budget

February 22, 2008

OLYMPIA – Relieving congestion and improving safety was the theme in the state House of Representatives today as lawmakers voted to approve the supplemental Transportation Budget.

Drafted in wake of the recent failure of Proposition 1, sinking federal funds, and weakening gas tax, budget writers had their work cut our for them.

“2008 greeted us with big challenges that we simply had to meet,” said House Transportation Chair Judy Clibborn (D-Mercer Island). “It wasn’t easy to but we remained focused and approved a budget that clearly targets congestion and prioritizes safety.”

The supplemental budget addresses the $1.8 billion shortfall with $600 million in administrative and capital cuts, $530 million worth of updated cash management, and by delaying projects that were never fully funded.

Another key element employed in balancing this year’s budget was a five-point reform plan that reflects major changes at the Washington State Ferries System (WSF). The five-point plan was designed to control costs, overhaul management, focus on service, ensure accountability, and plan for the future.

“Our message to the ferries is clear -- focus on service, build the right boats and keep fares low,” Clibborn said. “I am confident that the new management that the governor has assembled will get the ferries back to doing what they do best.”

The 2007-09 Supplemental Transportation budget was voted out of the House 66-25 and now awaits consideration in the state Senate.

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Bill Information: House Bill 2878

Contact: State Rep. Judy Clibborn, 360-786-7926